In Loving Memory of Edmond James D'Arville
July 15, 1931-March 3, 2015
Edmond James D'Arville, retired Lieutenant Commander with the United States Navy, passed away on March 3rd, 2015 after an extended illness. Edmond is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn. Edmond was born in Bronx, New York to Edmond J. and Estelle D'Arville on July 15th, 1931. He was raised in Bronx, New York and graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School. He then went on to graduate with an Engineering degree from New York State Maritime College in Fort Schuyler, New York. While attending college there he boxed his way to the title of Lightweight Boxing Champion. Later, he went on to obtain his Master's Degree in Business from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. His first of many jobs was with the Newport News Shipping and Dry Dock Company in Virginia, where he put his passion for all things maritime to work while drafting and designing ships. In 1951 Edmond met the love of his life, Marilyn. Edmond and Marilyn wed on October 31st, 1953. In December of that same year Edmond was drafted into the service and joined the Navy. He worked as an Ensign at the Charleston Naval Shipyard in Charleston, South Carolina where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant J.G. In June of 1957 he became certified as a Naval Aviator. Following his certification he received orders to serve aboard the USS Roosevelt along with many other carriers. Edmond had the esteemed honor of being the Commanding Officer on the USS Intrepid of a squadron detachment that was sent to Vietnam. During his 21 years serving the United States Navy Edmond was a Squadron Operations Officer, Transportation Manager, Instrument Flight Instructor-Pilot, Instructor-Pilot, Officer in Charge- Aviation Unit or Detachment, Transportation Manager, Squadron Communications Officer, Superintendent- Communications, Instructor- Technical, Instructor- Vocational Training, and lastly a Security Officer- Shore Activity. He also received the following commendations and medals: Air Medal (3), Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V", Navy Unit Commendation (2), Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal (2), Vietnam Service Medal (2), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Navy Distinguished Service Star, and the Expert Pistol Shot Medal. Family and friends can attest that the patriotism and discipline that he gained by serving in the Navy never left him. Edmond paid an ultimate sacrifice that afforded us all life and liberty in this great nation.
After his service to our country Edmond was initially employed by Johns Manville. He then went on to start his own company, Energy Wise Incorporated. Next, he went to work for EE&G of NASA. Once retiring from EE&G he was privately contracted by NASA to work in energy management.
Edmond officially retired in 1994. However, one could say he never truly retired as he continuously pursued his interests, never slowing down. He absolutely loved learning in every way. He was a scholar, but also an adventurer. Of his many interests flying was dearest to his heart. He also loved boating, fishing, reading, telling funny jokes, sports, taking the R.V. for a spin on a road trip, and worldwide travel.
Edmond D'Arville was an extremely intelligent, kind, and witty man. He always managed to light up the room with his smile and fill the room with laughter. His sense of humor charmed us all. He also strived to be a source of encouragement and support to his family and friends. He inspired us all to reach for the brass ring and to never settle for second best. Edmond was endearingly known to some of his schoolmates as the "French Frog," and to his naval comrades as "Easy Ed." He is a beloved husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. We are all blessed that we were fortunate enough to have had him in our lives. The impact that he made on this world, and in our lives, will be remembered and cherished. He will be dearly missed but it gives us joy to know that he is flying high again!
Edmond James D'Arville is survived by: his daughter and son-in-law, Lynn A. and Schuyler A. Lovestrand of Vero Beach, FL.; his son and daughter-in-law, Edmond A. and Deborah J. D'Arville of Apopka, FL.; his daughter and son-in-law, Jeanne M. and William G. Rothamel of Flower Mound, TX.; his son and daughter-in-law, John D. and Wanda B. D'Arville of Luverne, AL.; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael J. and Michelle E. D'Arville of Apopka, FL.
Grandchildren: Lauria L. Trout and husband Maya, Cheriessa E. and Crystalise M. Lovestrand; Melissa L. Manchester and husband R.J.; Matthew G., Jenna E., Bethany L., and Colin G. Rothamel; Michael J. and Marilyn R. D'Arville; Blake R. D'Arville.
Great-Grandchildren: Twins, Dahlia M. and Zinnia F. Trout
He is preceded in death by his parents Edmond and Estelle D'Arville; his sister Marion T. and her husband Jack O'Donnell.
The memorial service to honor Edmond James D'Arville will be held at DeGusipe Funeral Home in Maitland, Florida on March 9th, 2015 at 9:30 am. Following the memorial, a full military honor service will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida at 2:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or the VA.
Donations to LLS can be made via mail:
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Northern and Central Florida Chapter
3319 Maguire Blvd
Suite 101
Orlando, FL. 32803
Donations to LLS can be made via web:
https://donate.lls.org
-Please indicate your donation is in memory of Edmond D'Arville
-LLS Phone # 407-898-0733
Donations to the VA can be made via web:
http://www.volunteer.va.gov/apps/VolunteerNow/
-100 percent of your donation will go toward supporting Veterans and you can even choose which fund your money will support.
-To donate online, select a state and medical center, and then click 'Donate Online.'
-If you would like to donate to the VA Community Living Center in Lake Nona where Edmond resided for three years: please denote in the additional comments section on the donation form.